HMX EMO vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and the Kailh Sage stand out as excellent options, each offering unique qualities to cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO is a linear switch known for its lively and clacky feel, accompanied by a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. This switch provides a satisfying and smooth typing experience, thanks to its exceptional factory lubrication. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch that delivers a distinct typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness. The Sage switch is categorized as invigorating, sharp, and crunchy. While both switches have their own strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX EMO and Kailh Sage both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This material is ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for optimal light dispersion. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, these switches are quite similar when it comes to their top housing material. However, the EMO utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sage's polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounder sound when typing on the EMO switches.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the HMX EMO and Kailh Sage switches offer a combination of polycarbonate and nylon that results in unique sound profiles. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings allow for distinct tactile feedback when pressing down or releasing a key. While the EMO emphasizes a deeper sound profile with its nylon bottom housing, the Sage focuses on a crisper and sharper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. This distinction in bottom housing material can lead to varied typing experiences for users depending on their preference for sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the HMX EMO and Kailh Sage switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Both switches offer the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, creating a clean and resonant sound suitable for RGB lighting. However, the EMO's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Sage's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a crisper and sharper sound. Whether you prefer a muted and rounder sound or a sharper and clearer sound, these housing material differences will impact the overall typing experience with each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is clear that the EMO is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a light switch overall. In contrast, the Sage has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the EMO, as it allows for more extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Sage provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it can be seen that the EMO has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Sage's 3.6 mm. While the difference is minimal, it can still have an impact on the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. For those who prefer a quicker response time and shorter travel distance, the EMO may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more pronounced key press and a longer travel distance may lean towards the Sage switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, providing a tactile feel while typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
The Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the HMX EMO switch is known for its quiet and smooth typing experience, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch produces a distinct and sharp clicking noise with each press. The EMO offers a more subtle sound profile suitable for quieter environments, while the Sage provides a more pronounced clicking sound that some users find satisfying and refreshing.
When it comes to feel, the HMX EMO switch provides a feather-light typing experience with a bouncy and effortless feel, thanks to its factory-lubed design and 46g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a heavy and sharp tactile feedback with a firm actuation force, creating a more immersive typing sensation for users who enjoy a responsive and tactile switch.
Overall, choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience, the EMO switch might be the right choice for you. However, if you enjoy a distinct clicking noise and a sharp tactile feedback, the Sage switch could provide a more satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider your typing style and environment when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your preference for typing experience and the level of resistance you prefer. If you enjoy a light, bouncy typing experience with a lower bottom-out force, the EMO switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier bottom-out force, the Sage switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you enjoy most.
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